Exhibit on Women in WWII RCAF Unveils Untold Stories NOW

UPDATE: A groundbreaking exhibit titled “Stories from the Women’s Division” is set to launch at the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum in Brandon, Manitoba, highlighting the untold stories of women who served in the Royal Canadian Air Force during World War II. Seraphina Gilbert, a dedicated Brandon University student, uncovered numerous unseen photographs and personal narratives that are reshaping the historical narrative around these women.

The exhibit is currently in development, with a preview expected at the Brandon Shoppers Mall by early 2026. Gilbert’s project began as a simple task to update museum signage but quickly evolved into a larger initiative after they identified significant gaps in the documentation of women’s contributions during the war.

Gilbert explained, “I started to notice a disconnect, a research gap, and that didn’t feel right to me.” They found that while male personnel were frequently identified by name and role, women were often labeled generically, reducing their contributions to mere captions. “When there are photos of men, you see, ‘This is Sergeant so and so,’ but for women, it was just ‘Woman fuelling aircraft.’ That felt so superficial,” Gilbert stated.

Through their summer work at the museum, Gilbert collaborated with Zoe McQuinn, the museum’s director general, to dive deeper into the stories behind the images. “I think they are a rock star, and an excellent researcher,” McQuinn praised Gilbert, underscoring the importance of passionate individuals to preserve history amidst limited resources.

The Royal Canadian Air Force Women’s Division was established in 1941 to fill roles that allowed male airmen to engage in combat. With a motto, “We serve so that men may fly,” the division trained over 10,000 women during its operation, although none served as pilots initially. By the war’s end, women could train in up to 92 specialties, ranging from ground crew to administrative roles.

Gilbert’s research is now focused on three key figures: Dorothy Maria Wakefield from Forrest, Olive Goddard Walsh from Winnipeg, and Mary Kathryn Haysel from Ontario. The aim is to create thorough profiles for each, featuring photographs and detailed accounts of their service. “I want it to resonate with people,” Gilbert emphasized.

This initiative is not only a tribute to the women of the RCAF but also a vital educational tool. Rhonda Hinther, a professor at Brandon University, is supervising Gilbert’s work and noted that this partnership will provide invaluable hands-on experience for students while sharing inspiring stories.

As Gilbert prepares to graduate and continue their studies in a master’s program focused on music in World War II, they are committed to integrating these newly discovered narratives into their academic work. “I didn’t expect this at all. What started as a simple task has turned into a meaningful project that brings these stories to light,” Gilbert reflected.

This exhibit promises to fill a crucial void in the historical record and honor the contributions of women in wartime. Stay tuned for more updates as this compelling story unfolds and the exhibit takes shape.